Washington (CNN) – A prime seat at the Super Bowl. A flattering documentary. A funny turn on “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.” No doubt about it: Mitt Romney has been back in the spotlight recently. But does it all add up to him making a third run for the Republican presidential nomination?

No, according to multiple sources close to the 2012 Republican presidential nominee.

While the ex-candidate is clearly enjoying all the good karma - which comes amid a bad month for Chris Christie —sources close to Romney say the nascent draft-Mitt idea, such as it is, is organic and not coming from him or his wife, Ann, or anyone close to them.Follow @politicalticker

In fact, the chatter is coming from some Republican donors who understand how much money it will take for a GOP candidate to compete against the presumed Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton, if she does run.

If Christie’s troubles continue, and former Fla. Gov. Jeb Bush decides not to run, the theory is that Romney could, perhaps, become attractive.

He’s been seen in a more attractive light lately with the Netflix documentary “Mitt.” But sources close to the Romneys say Ann Romney and the family aren’t likely to want to go through a campaign again.

Romney told CNN last June he would not enter the fray again.

“It was hard work. I said it was like a roller coaster. Yes, there are ups and down. But, but you still pay to get on the roller coaster. It’s a real thrill and experience that we will never forget. And frankly, I’d do it again.”

But when asked that he would, Romney explained: “I would do it again, but it’s not my time. Ann might not … but I would love to do it again, are you kidding? I’d love to do it and win. But it’s not my time. I’ve had my chance.”

In fact, Romney’s generational handover would probably go to Rep. Paul Ryan, his former running mate. Romney often points to Ryan as an example of a legislator who can get things done. And, don’t forget, he hired him as his “junior partner” in the campaign.

And while the ex-Romneyites don’t want to comment on the record, one source says that while a new campaign isn’t happening, all this chatter “must make him feel good.”

soundoff(32 Responses)

Marie MD

Good now get lost!
Was he talking about his poor dog and his ride on the top of an SUV which the family thought was funny . . . . .It’s a real thrill and experience that we will never forget. And frankly, I’d do it again.”
Just to bring the twit back down to Earth. You will NEVER win the presidency.

February 4, 2014 06:21 am at 6:21 am |

Jerry

I am a life-long Democrat, but I hope Mr. Romney will run again. He will have my unconditional support.

Any doubts? Simply take a quick look at the liar/clueless/vindictive president América ended up with.

That should make our choices clear and easy. "What does at this time matter Hillary" as a choice"? Foe God's sake, she appears to be worst than 0-bama!!!

February 4, 2014 06:25 am at 6:25 am |

TomInRochNY

Since you're not running again, can we see your 2009 tax return? Just sayin'.

February 4, 2014 06:54 am at 6:54 am |

abnguy

I think we have had enough of liberals running for and being in office. The last few liberals McCain, Obama and Romney have not worked out for the nation or the GOP.

February 4, 2014 07:04 am at 7:04 am |

bearitstrong

stay home and make more $$$ mitt

February 4, 2014 07:18 am at 7:18 am |

Gurgyl

You kidding? Paul Ryan? Nonsense. He is not even fit to be a cook in WH. Forget GOP. Let me advise you, you come to the planet called Earth. Leave your Greed. Firing people from job is not the solution–think what caused this cause–causa causen., causa sine qua non–cause without which consequence would not have happened. Fix this in your brain, work for America, middle income holder, poor, homeless, women etc. Then try.

February 4, 2014 07:41 am at 7:41 am |

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA -aka- Where's Our $24 Billion?

Yeah right. He's going to run again. That's what the Netflix movie was about. Along with his appearance on the Tonight Show. He's trying to warm up to average Americans, but it's still impossible to believe this fraud.